Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is not subject to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 USC 552). However, GAO's disclosure policy follows the spirit of the act consistent with GAO's duties and functions as an agency with primary responsibility to the Congress.

Expedited Processing and Appeal Rights

requesters who show that delays pose an imminent threat to a person’s life or physical safety, or

journalists who show an urgent need to inform the public about actual or alleged federal government activity.

See 4 CFR 81.4(b) and 4 CFR 81.3(f).

If your request to release records is denied, you may appeal that decision by sending a letter to the U.S. Comptroller General explaining why you believe the denial was unwarranted. You must submit your appeal within 60 days of denial. See 4 CFR 81.4(d).

GAO does not release records that

originate outside of GAO (those requests are referred to the original source);

are part of an ongoing review or other current projects; or

relate to work performed in response to a congressional request, unless the congressional requester authorizes the release.